C H A P T E R 2

Using Articles Correctly

There are two types of articles in English:

Definite (specific): the

Indefinite (nonspecific): a, an, some

Using articles correctly can be tricky, but not impossible. Here are
some rules that should help you master their use:

1. Use the with:

a. All common nouns and with noncount nouns that are
      specific

The people have spoken.
Jane says the cinema is her life.

b. Singular count nouns that represent a class of things or
      people

Fr. Alegro has devoted his life to the poor.
c.Plural proper nouns or singular proper nouns that name an
      ocean, a sea, or a river; a geographical region; an
      organization; or a newspaper

The Jareds got married fifty years ago.
The Mediterranean Sea has become polluted.
They loved the South.
Prof. Emory serves on the Faculty Senate.
He worked in Moscow as a correspondent for the Chicago Tribune.

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